India: United Breweries seeks to expand Heineken beer in Bengal, explores export to north-eastern states and overseas

United Breweries Ltd (UB) has sought a review of Bengal’s excise policy to expand production of Heineken beer in the state and explore exports to north-eastern states and overseas markets, CM’s adviser Subrata Gupta said on October 12.

UB was part of a Dutch business delegation led by the Netherlands ambassador Marisa Gerards that met state commerce and industries minister Tapas Roy and Gupta in Kolkata to explore investment opportunities in Bengal.

“Representatives of seven Dutch companies, which already have a presence in India, with some operating in Kolkata, are looking to expand their businesses. They have sought govt support for expansion. We discussed how the govt could address their requests. Some decisions were taken to further cooperation, and we look forward to expanding their operations,” Gupta said.

UB wants to expand its existing brewery in the state to supply more beer to north-eastern states and south-east Asian countries. The company has sought changes to the excise duty structure, Gupta said, adding that govt had asked it to submit a proposal for examination by the excise and finance departments.

14 October, 2026